Choosing the right remote access solution can be challenging, especially with so many similar-sounding options on the market. In this article, we compare two of the most widely used tools: ConnectWise ScreenConnect and LogMeIn Rescue.
We’ll break down their key features, usability, security, and pricing models to help you decide which tool best fits your team’s needs, whether you’re supporting a large remote workforce or simply managing a few key machines from afar.
Overview

ConnectWise ScreenConnect (formerly ConnectWise Control) is a technician-focused remote support platform used by IT teams and MSPs.
It supports both attended and unattended sessions, offers features like session recording, command-line access, and “Backstage” mode for background troubleshooting.
Licensing is based on the number of concurrent technicians, with optional agent packs for unattended endpoints.

LogMeIn Rescue, now part of the GoTo suite, is an enterprise-grade remote support platform focused on security, scalability, and technician efficiency.
It supports attended and unattended access, offers session queuing, technician collaboration, in-session diagnostics, and integrations with ITSM tools like ServiceNow and Zendesk.
Rescue’s pricing is based on the number of technician seats and includes enterprise features such as advanced reporting, SSO, and permission controls.
Features
1. Remote Access & Session Handling
ScreenConnect supports both attended and unattended sessions with fast connection speeds. It includes Backstage mode for background work, remote reboot, session logging, and technician-to-technician transfer – great for collaborative troubleshooting.
LogMeIn Rescue also covers both session types and adds session queuing, technician collaboration, and auto-routing for more structured support workflows. It’s tailored to enterprise support desks handling high session volume.
2. File Transfer & In-Session Tools
ScreenConnect supports drag-and-drop file transfers, remote clipboard, and session chat. It also offers basic annotation and screen scaling.
Rescue enhances collaboration with in-session diagnostics, system information views, customizable scripts, reboot/reconnect without losing control, and full file manager access. It’s better suited for technical deep dives during live sessions.
3. Security
ScreenConnect provides TLS and AES-256 encryption, role-based access controls, IP filtering, and detailed audit logs. On-premise deployment is also an option for full control.
Rescue adds enterprise-grade security with SSO/SAML integration, permission-based controls, session recording, audit reporting, and compliance with SOC 2 Type II and GDPR standards, making it highly trusted for regulated industries.
4. Customization & Integrations
ScreenConnect allows custom branding, technician roles, UI tweaks, and script-based automation. It also integrates with PSA/RMM tools and the broader ConnectWise ecosystem.
Rescue focuses more on large-scale integrations with ITSM platforms like ServiceNow, Zendesk, and Salesforce. Branding is available, but customization is more limited compared to ScreenConnect.
5. Technician Workflow & Experience
ScreenConnect has a smooth web-based console with multi-tabbed sessions, multi-monitor support, and technician queuing. It runs well in-browser and offers a desktop app option.
Rescue feels more enterprise-oriented, with tools for technician monitoring, co-browsing, and performance analytics. It’s slightly more complex but built for high-throughput environments.
6. Deployment & Management Tools
ScreenConnect can be self-hosted or cloud-based, offering flexibility for internal IT or MSPs. Tools like Backstage, the Toolbox, and command-line access give admins strong control over remote environments.
Rescue is cloud-only but highly centralized. It includes user management portals, detailed reports, technician audit trails, and remote policy enforcement, designed for large IT departments with compliance needs.
Features | ScreenConnect | LogMeIn Rescue |
---|---|---|
Session Queuing | ||
Session Transfer | ||
File Transfer | ||
Remote Clipboard | ||
In-Session Diagnostics | ||
Session Chat | ||
System Info Panel | ||
Role-Based Access Control | ||
Audit Logging | ||
On-Premise Deployment Option | ||
Branding & UI Customization | ||
Script Automation | ||
Technician Monitoring Tools |
Interface Сomparison
ScreenConnect offers a clean, technician-friendly layout with customizable tools and quick access to sessions. Rescue provides a more structured console suited for large teams with built-in monitoring and workflow management.
Compatibility
Both ScreenConnect and LogMeIn Rescue support all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. This ensures broad device compatibility for modern IT environments, whether you’re supporting employees or clients across diverse platforms.
Operating System | ScreenConnect | LogMeIn Rescue |
---|---|---|
Windows | ||
macOS | ||
Linux | ||
Android | ||
iOS | ||
Chrome OS |
Pros and Cons
Connectwise ScreenConnect
Pros
- Offers on-premise deployment and full branding control.
- Powerful tools like Backstage, Toolbox, and session transfer.
- Supports unlimited unattended agents with flexible pricing.
- Fast, lightweight interface ideal for technicians.
Cons
- Some advanced features require higher-tier plans.
- No session queuing or detailed technician monitoring.
- Lacks built-in diagnostics panel for devices.
LogMeIn Rescue
Pros
- Enterprise-focused features like session queuing and technician monitoring.
- Strong compliance and security controls.
- Supports full diagnostics, annotations, and detailed reporting.
- Seamless integrations with ITSM tools like ServiceNow and Zendesk.
Cons
- Cloud-only deployment.
- Higher price per technician seat.
- Interface may feel complex for smaller teams or new users.
Pricing
Both ScreenConnect and LogMeIn Rescue use subscription-based models, but they differ significantly in how access is licensed and how costs scale.
ConnectWise ScreenConnect
ScreenConnect licenses per technician, with optional add-ons for unattended agents. It’s flexible and scalable, especially for IT teams that need unlimited endpoints per user.
Plans (billed annually):
- • One – $30/month: 1 tech, 1 concurrent session, 10 unattended agents.
- • Standard – $45/month: 1 tech, 3 sessions, unlimited unattended agents.
- • Premium – $55/month: 1 tech, 10 sessions, advanced features (reporting, video capture, diagnostics).
LogMeIn Rescue
LogMeIn Rescue charges per concurrent technician with all-inclusive features across tiers. It’s ideal for large support teams but comes with a higher per-seat cost.
Pricing:
- • Starts at $149/month per concurrent technician (billed annually).
There are no lower-tier or modular plans; all features are included, including session queuing, diagnostics, and integrations.
Plan Detail | ScreenConnect | LogMeIn Rescue |
---|---|---|
Free Trial | 14 days | 14 days |
Billing Model | Per technician license + optional agents | Per concurrent technician |
Entry-Level Plan | $30/month (1 tech, 1 session, 10 agents) | $149/month (all features included) |
Standard Plan | $45/month (3 sessions, unlimited agents) | N/A |
Premium Plan | $55/month (10 sessions + advanced tools) | N/A |
Free ScreenConnect and LogMeIn Alternative
If neither ScreenConnect nor LogMeIn Rescue fits your budget or complexity needs, HelpWire offers a streamlined, zero-cost alternative built for IT professionals, support teams, and small businesses.
Why HelpWire Stands Out
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On-demand and unattended sessions.
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Cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
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Drag-and-drop file transfer, multi-monitor view, and session chat.
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Admin access for advanced troubleshooting.
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Centralized team and client management tools.
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AES-256 encryption and secure TLS connections for peace of mind.
HelpWire combines essential remote support features with a user-friendly experience, without the overhead of enterprise pricing or steep learning curves.
Whether you’re a solo tech or part of a growing support team, HelpWire delivers reliable functionality that rivals paid tools.
Conclusion
Both ConnectWise ScreenConnect and LogMeIn Rescue are premium-grade remote support solutions, but they cater to different types of teams.
ScreenConnect is better suited for IT professionals and MSPs who want full control over configuration, branding, and infrastructure. It offers flexible pricing, on-premise deployment, and strong technician tools. However, advanced features are gated behind higher-tier plans.
LogMeIn Rescue, on the other hand, is a fully cloud-hosted solution built for enterprise support teams. It offers a polished console with built-in monitoring, technician queuing, and diagnostics – all at a higher price per tech. It’s a better fit for large organizations that prioritize structured workflows and deep integrations.
If you need scalable support features and control over infrastructure, go with ScreenConnect.
If you prefer a turnkey solution with all features baked in, Rescue may be worth the investment.
And if you’re looking for a free, hassle-free alternative, HelpWire covers the essentials without cutting corners.